I recently came across an NPR article that really grabbed my attention, discussing the intensifying pro-Palestinian protests unfolding on college campuses throughout the United States. As someone deeply involved in protesting against the ongoing genocide and war in Gaza, and with many close friends who are witnessing the escalation of protests firsthand at neighboring universities such as Virginia Tech and VCU, I found Juliette Kayyem’s insights particularly compelling. Her emphasis on the critical importance of universities actively listening to the voices of their students and fostering constructive dialogue to tackle the underlying issues is something that I value deeply.
The article highlights factors contributing to the intensity of the protests, such as the initial use of excessive force by some universities and the failure to employ de-escalation techniques. Tensions have led to confrontations with law enforcement, arrests, and accusations of involvement by “outside agitators.” Despite this, the article emphasizes the possibility of de-escalation, citing examples like Brown University, where the administration agreed to address student concerns through dialogue and a future vote on divestment.
“To argue that what we’re seeing on colleges and campuses is some outward force manipulating young people… I think undermines the capacity to de-escalate in these situations because it’s sort of treating it as some like foreign alien that you can just get rid of.” Juliette Kayyem, served as an advisor on homeland security during the Obama administration and in the administration of Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick
Why is this a feminist issue?
From a feminist lens, these protests and their responses can be analyzed through power dynamics, gendered violence, and marginalization. The excessive use of force by authorities, notably the police, perpetuates patriarchal structures where violence is wielded to maintain control and stifle dissent. This pattern of excessive force disproportionately targets marginalized groups, including women and non-binary individuals, exposing systemic inequalities within law enforcement and society at large.
Furthermore, the narrative surrounding the protests, particularly the characterization of protesters as “outside agitators,” serves to delegitimize marginalized voices and dismiss their grievances. This narrative seeks to undermine the agency and autonomy of protesters, especially women and gender minorities, by portraying their actions as manipulated or influenced by external forces.
The imperative for de-escalation and constructive dialogue emphasizes the need to center marginalized voices, particularly those of women and gender minorities, in conflict resolution processes. By prioritizing inclusive and equitable approaches to addressing underlying issues, universities and other institutions can strive to create safer and more supportive environments for all members of the community.
Need of Fostering Student Voices
Universities play a vital role in shaping the educational, social, and political landscapes of their communities. Actively listening to the voices of their students and fostering constructive dialogue is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, students are key stakeholders within the university environment, and their perspectives, experiences, and concerns should be valued and respected. By engaging in meaningful dialogue with students, universities can gain valuable insights into the issues that matter most to their community members, allowing them to address these concerns more effectively. Additionally, fostering an environment of open communication and dialogue helps to build trust and mutual respect between students and university administrators, leading to a stronger sense of community and belonging. Moreover, by tackling the underlying issues of student protests head-on, universities demonstrate their commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusivity, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and supportive campus culture.
“And I think Brown’s willingness to listen and to provide a forum outside of protests where the students can be heard – and that’s going to be in the fall when the board meets – is essential and was essential for the students to feel like their university wasn’t picking sides, but was willing to listen.” Juliette Kayyem
ShoutOut! James Madison University 